A man has been arrested in Oregon for an alleged plot to carry out a mass shooting at a rock climbing event.
Samson Zebturiah Garner, 39, was taken into custody in Deschutes County after police were informed by detectives in Portland that the suspect was “planning a violent attack during an event” in the area. According to the Bend Bulletin, Garner had told two acquaintances he intended to harm people at a climbing event in the county, most likely the Alpine Club Craggin’ Classic this past weekend, reports The Guardian. Law enforcement searched Garner’s vehicle and found “evidence of the planned attack”, including firearms. Garner, who had no previous criminal record, was charged with attempted murder, first and second-degree attempted assault and unlawful use of a weapon.
On Friday, the American Alpine Club, which organized the weekend’s event, posted a message on Facebook. “On October 18, the American Alpine Club was made aware of a potential threat to the health and safety of attendees to the Smith Rock Craggin Classic, read the statement. “We worked closely with law enforcement agencies and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department to monitor the situation and evaluate our ability to host the event, with the safety and well-being of our staff, volunteers, partners, and participants as our top priority. The associated individual was arrested and is now in custody, and authorities are confident there is no continued threat.” A district attorney’s document listed potential victims of the alleged plot as “Belayer 1,” “Belayer 2,” and “Spectator 1,” and “Spectator 2.” Belayers help operate climbers’ ropes.